Revolutionary Study: A cholesterol gene linked to breast cancer spread
A groundbreaking study published in the journal Cell has uncovered a game-changing connection: a gene involved in regulating cholesterol levels could also influence the spread of breast cancer. Researchers have pinpointed a variant of the gene PCSK9 that seems to promote the spread of cancer cells to other parts of the body. However, an approved cholesterol-lowering antibody could significantly reduce this risk, Science News reports.
Genetic analysis of a sample from Sweden revealed that individuals with two copies of this variant have a 22% risk of metastasis within the first 15 years of diagnosis, compared to just 2% for those without the mutation. These results, supported by other studies, underscore the importance of inherited genetics in the disease’s evolution and offer hope to patients, especially since this variant is common in various populations, including European, African, and Asian ones.
The mechanism behind this spread is PCSK9’s ability to suppress a protein that limits the activity of two pro-metastatic genes. In experiments on mice, researchers found that the anti-PCSK9 antibody blocked this process and significantly reduced metastases. While not a cure, these findings point to a promising strategy for high-risk patients.
Looking ahead, administering the antibody early, before cancer onset, may help prevent metastases. Further clinical trials are crucial to confirm if this treatment can improve survival rates and quality of life for patients with metastatic breast cancer. This discovery marks a new era in personalized breast cancer management.